Bersih 5: There shouldn't be a police blockade, says Dr Mahathir

KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad (pic) is disappointed that the police refused to allow Bersih 5 supporters gathered in Bangsar to march to Dataran Merdeka.

The former premier made an appearance at Dataran Maybank in Bangsar around 2.20pm, but was greeted by a virtually empty street as most demonstrators had dispersed by that time.

The demonstrators had left the area and were trying to make their way to Dataran Merdeka via various routes.

"Police are just doing their job, but the protesters have come peacefully.  There should not have been a blockade," he told reporters briefly.

Several Bersih supporters who had stayed back in the area managed to get a glimpse of Dr Mahathir, who was accompanied by Pribumi president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Mukhriz, who is also the party's deputy president.

Also joining him were other Pribumi leaders and a group of black shirts on motorbikes, whose affiliation could not be confirmed.

Dr Mahathir indulged Bersih supporters who greeted him with handshakes and photographs before entering a waiting car half an hour later.

He is believed to be heading to KLCC, where the bulk of protesters are headed towards for the remainder of the rally.